As we head into the final stretch of the NFL season, the question at the forefront for many teams is: who can truly dominate on the ground? With playoff hopes hanging in the balance, having a robust running game isn’t just a luxury—it’s an absolute necessity.

For the Minnesota Vikings, their ground defense has been a tale of two narratives, hinging upon the presence of rookie linebacker Ivan Pace Jr. With a remarkable nine-game winning streak under their belt, the Vikings sit atop the DVOA rankings, a testament to their overall defensive performance. Yet, it’s clear they face challenges when Pace is not on the field, particularly against the run.

When Pace is suited up, Minnesota’s defense transforms into a formidable wall against the run, leading the league in fewest rush yards allowed per game, average yards per carry, and an impressive 71.6% rush-defense success rate. Equally notable is their ability to limit yards after contact to just over two yards—a remarkable feat in the modern era where running back committees often rule the day. However, the absence of Pace sees those stats take a hit, with opponents finding more daylight both in terms of yards per carry and after contact, resulting in a drop to 15th in the league while the rush defense success rate plummets to 55.6%.

Pace’s unique ability to make first contact is pivotal, forcing opponents into a more predictable, pass-heavy strategy. Whether it’s squeezing into tight spaces to disrupt a runner’s momentum or engaging linemen significantly larger than himself, Pace’s rookie season has showcased a mix of strength and savvy that’s rare to find.

His instincts and gap discipline allow him to maximize these opportunities, acting like a missile streaking into the backfield multiple times a game. And, as highlighted in some jaw-dropping clips circulating online, his tenacity is on full display, collapsing offensive lines and leaving opposing players scrambling to adjust.

This surge of action from Pace enables his fellow linebacker, Blake Cashman, to operate with more freedom, especially against outside zone runs where Cashman might otherwise need to cover more ground. The duo’s synergy means if run stops force a third-and-long, the Vikings can diversify their defensive playbook, potentially sending extra pressure on the quarterback while Pace anchors the run defense.

All eyes turn to Ford Field this Sunday, where the stakes couldn’t be higher—the winner claims the coveted No. 1 seed. The timing of Pace’s return could not be more apropos, adding a much-needed boost as the Vikings prepare to face the Lions.

Detroit’s offensive strength lies in their versatile rushing attack, averaging an impressive 5.7 yards per carry on inside and outside-zone runs. To counteract this, Minnesota must win the battle at the line of scrimmage, keeping Detroit’s ground game in check and tilting the time-of-possession pendulum in their favor—a critical piece they’ve leaned on throughout the season.

As we near the crunch time of postseason play, Pace has cemented himself as a crucial piece in the Vikings’ defensive puzzle. His presence doesn’t just bolster Minnesota’s chances; it reshapes the entire landscape of what opponents can expect when they face the Vikings and their relentless pursuit of gridiron glory.